Apple is serious about getting into
the world of streaming media, and the firm is reportedly prepared to create
hardware to ensure that its streaming service is in the hands of as many people
as possible. According to The Information,
the iPhone maker is looking into releasing a Chromecast-like dongle that will
be an affordable alternative to the high-priced Apple TV.

The Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV
Stick have been dominating the set-top box market in recent years, with Amazon
even converting its standard Fire TV into an HDMI dongle. While the Apple TV is
an incredibly capable device, with support for Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision and
Ultra HD, it’s unable to compete on the value front.

While Apple wants to get its own
streaming service into the hands of millions, there are easier ways. Netflix is
available as an app on just about every platform that you could think of –
whether it’s a mobile phone, tablet, smart TV or even the Nintendo 3DS. That’s
the approach that Apple could take, and would arguably be easier than creating
its own hardware product, but then Apple doesn’t get to control the entire experience.

According to The Information, there’s no confirmation as to whether or not Apple
is pressing ahead with its plans for a dongle set-top box. If it chooses to forgo
the launch, then Apple will need to find a way to get its Apple TV ecosystem in
front of consumers – after all, the firm is said to be spending more than $1
billion on original content, and it needs eyes to see it.

Apple’s rumoured to be planning a
launch for its streaming service next year, with some reports suggesting it
could begin its roll-out in March, with the firm said to be eyeing a launch in
100 countries. That means we could get an answer very soon as to whether Apple is
going ahead with its dongle or not.